A case of facial nerve neurinoma of the middle ear is described and the literature is briefly reviewed.
A woman, aged 45, complained of a hearing loss in her right ear for 5 years and a facial paralysis on the same side for 3 years was admitted to the University Hospital. On examination a tumor was filling half of the right external auditory canal. A radical mastoidectomy was performed to remove the tumor. Histologically the tumor revealed to be neurinoma. The neurinoma was seen arising from the horizontal portion of the facial nerve and had eroded the right lateral semicircular canal. There was no recovery of facial function. Cosmetic improvement is planned in the future by the use of a fascial sling.
The intratemporal facial nerve neurinoma is defined as a rare benign tumor developing from the Schwann cells. However, so far more than 160 cases have been reported. These slowgrowing neoplasms when untreated may produce conductive and sensori-neural hearing loss, facial paralysis, vertigo and even intracranial complications. Early operation is a reasonable recommendation.